The 65th Liffey Descent brought the paddling community together for another memorable chapter in the history of Ireland’s most iconic paddle race. With six and a half decades of tradition behind it, the Liffey Descent remains a unique test of skill and endurance, combining exciting racing with the character and scenery of the River Liffey. As the Liffey Descent continues to evolve, the 65th running also provided an opportunity to reflect on the importance of protecting the waterways and natural environments that make events like this possible.
While the conditions for the race may change, the enthusiasm of everyone on the start line, and the feeling of crossing the finish line after thirty kilometers of racing, are always the same. This racing spirit was seen across every category of the 2026 race, with no shortage of drama as new winners were crowned, and plenty of titles defended. First across the finish line for the 65th edition were the South African crew of Matthew Fenn and Bradley Boulle, coming home in a time of 2:14:30, just seconds shy of last years winning time. The South African crew were the first boat over Straffan weir, and continued to build their lead all the way to the finish line. The second placed crew, featuring the 2023 Liffey Descent K1A winner Nicolas Lambert, came in nearly three minutes down on the crew of Fenn and Boulle. One of the closest finishes of the day came in the K2 Mixed, with nearly two and a half hours of racing coming down to a sprint finish, where Joe Peterson and Sam Martyn barely edged out the crew of Brynde Kreft and Shaun Harte to take the win on the line.
In the K1A race Tom Brennan was denied his third win in a row with a great performance from Salmon Leap CC’s Sean McCarthy, paddling a smooth and strong race to take the Mens K1 title. In the women’s race another member of the strong French contingent at this years race took home the top honours, Capucine Martin from Palavas Kayak de Mer taking a very convincing win in the category. In the kayak categories the K1C race always sees the biggest field and some great racing for the podium, this year Sean Heneghan from Celbridge Paddlers took the men’s title, with Caitlin Markey from the University of Galway first in the women’s race. In the highly competitive Canadian Canoe categories the standout result came from James Dillon and Gearóid Jones in the Doubles race who successfully defended their title won last year.
The spectacle of the Liffey Descent always provides and endless amount of thrilling battles in the race, and creates incredible stories for everyone who lines up to take on the race. This colourful celebration of the paddlesport community would not be possible without the support of countless volunteers and partners. Canoeing Ireland would like to thank all of the volunteers, officials, safety and rescue crews, landowners, partners and supporters who gave their time and expertise throughout the event. Their work, both on and off the water, continues the strong tradition behind the Liffey Descent and ensures that this unique event remains a highlight of the Irish paddling calendar.
Supporters and partners –
Sport Ireland, the OPW, South Dublin County Council, Dublin City Council, the K Club, Dublin University Boat Club, the Canoe Centre, Esmark Finch, the Red Cross, Holden Tree Service.
